Father Charged with Kidnapping After Memphis Baby Taken at Gunpoint

In Memphis, Tennessee, a 5-month-old girl named Amonye Avant was kidnapped at gunpoint by her father, Robert Avant, after he forcibly entered a home where the mother was present. The incident occurred late on June 11, prompting a city-wide alert and a multi-agency search involving foot patrols, vehicles, and drone assistance. Authorities located Avant and the child unharmed in a nearby home under construction by early morning, recovering a pink handgun near them. Avant was charged with aggravated burglary, especially aggravated kidnapping, and possession of a firearm during a dangerous felony. Police expressed relief at the safe recovery and extended thanks to all who assisted in the search, emphasizing the emotional impact of such cases on the community and law enforcement. The child was reunited with her mother following the incident.